Speech Perception In Noise Test (Spin) In Bilaterally Implanted Children

Shehata-Dieler, W, Schön, F, Müller, J, Helms, J

Objectives: Bilateral cochlear implant (CI) program was started with the aim to improve the patients communicative abilities in complex listening situations. In this study the auditory skills in children using bilateral cochlear implants were evaluated using speech discrimination in noise test.

Study design: Speech discrimination in noise test was performed in 23 bilaterally implanted children. Bisyllabic words were presented in noise at a signal to noise ratio S/N = 65/50 dB SPL. The test setup was arranged so that speech is delivered via 2 loud speakers and noise via two loud speakers.

Patients: 23 children implanted bilaterally with MED-EL COMBI 40/40+ implants were examined in this study. The children age at the test ranged from 2 10/12 to10 years.

Results: The data show clearly that bilateral CI has positive effects on the children’s communicative behaviour, specially in complex listening situations. Children examined with the speech in noise test scored significantly better with the bilateral condition compared to the unilateral condition.

Conclusions: The qualitative data from everyday observations and the quantitative data from the above study clearly show that bilateral CI implantation has positive effects on the childrens communicative abilities.


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